What is wildlife costing Alberta cattle operations?

ABP survey aims to put numbers behind wildlife-related losses and identify opportunities for better management and support.

Lost feed, damaged fences and reduced grazing capacity can add significant costs to Alberta cattle operations. But how widespread are these impacts, and what are they costing producers?

Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is seeking answers through a new wildlife damages survey designed to better understand and quantify the financial and operational impacts of wildlife on Alberta beef producers.

“Wildlife-related damage continues to be a significant challenge for many cattle producers across Alberta,” says Sam Vriend, ABP Wildlife Policy Advisor. “We want to better understand the impacts producers are experiencing and the strategies they’re using to manage them. The information gathered will help strengthen ABP’s advocacy efforts and evaluate the costs and benefits of various damage mitigation strategies. The more producers we hear from, the clearer the picture we’ll have.”  

The survey examines losses associated with wildlife accessing stored feed, crops and pasture, along with damage to fencing, water systems and other infrastructure. It also looks at how wildlife pressure influences winter feeding practices, including whether producers have had to change or abandon extended grazing systems.

Turning producer experiences into evidence

Beyond identifying losses, the survey explores the measures producers are using to manage wildlife damage, their effectiveness and the costs involved, says Sam Vriend, ABP Wildlife Specialist.

Producers are also asked about their experiences with existing compensation programs and what changes could make the greatest difference to their operations.

The goal is to build a clearer picture of wildlife-related costs across Alberta and provide information that could help inform future discussions about wildlife management, compensation and practical policy improvements.

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“By sharing their experiences, producers can help ABP develop a more complete picture of the challenges wildlife presents to cattle operations across the province.”

 – Sam Vriend

Share your experience

Alberta beef producers are encouraged to participate, whether wildlife pressure is a manageable part of their operation or a significant financial burden.

The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. All responses will be kept confidential, with results reported in aggregate.

Participants can also enter for a chance to win one of two prizes:

• A Vortex optics package, including binoculars, a rangefinder and harness, valued at approximately $2,020.
• A Pit Boss pellet grill and smoker, valued at approximately $700.

Survey deadline: January 7, 2027.

Please note: The survey focuses on wildlife-related damage other than predation.

Producers attending ABP’s upcoming Annual General Meeting will also have an opportunity to hear more about the survey directly from Vriend, who sill be speaking on this topic at the event.